Here’s a hearty and flavorful Beef Stew Recipe that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and savory seasonings come together in a rich, comforting broth. It’s a classic dish that everyone will love!
Classic Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast or brisket), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the beef cubes in flour, then add them to the pot in batches, browning all sides of the beef. Remove the beef and set it aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onions become translucent. - Deglaze the Pot:
Add the red wine (if using) to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. - Add the Broth and Seasonings:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, celery, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. - Simmer the Stew:
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. - Final Adjustments:
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes with a spoon and stir them back into the broth. - Serve:
Remove the bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.
Tips:
- Make It in a Slow Cooker: Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add parsnips, peas, or green beans for extra flavor and texture.
- Freezing: Beef stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
This beef stew is a comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with tender beef and vegetables that are perfect for dipping in crusty bread.